Former KISS guitarist VINNIE VINCENT is once again commanding attention, although this time it has little to do with flashy solos or stage theatrics. Instead, the spotlight is firmly on his pricing strategy for new solo music, which has ignited a heated debate among fans and critics alike.
Recently, VINNIE VINCENT announced the release of a new single titled “Ride the Serpent.” The track is part of his long-awaited solo album, Judgement Day Guitarmageddon. However, the rollout strategy has surprised many. Rather than releasing the album digitally or as a traditional physical release, each song will be sold individually as a limited-edition CD, with each disc priced at $200.
Moreover, shipping will only be included if all 1,000 copies are sold. According to VINNIE VINCENT, this approach is intentional and designed to protect his work from what he describes as “premature pirating.”
Fans Raise Concerns About Accessibility and Cost
While some fans support the artist’s right to price his work as he sees fit, others have expressed frustration. On Facebook, one fan openly questioned whether the pricing might discourage even loyal supporters, particularly during a challenging economic period.
Transcribed by fan via Facebook:
“I fear though, that this price will deter people from truly enjoying your beautiful art in this horrendous economy, especially if it will be this way for each single.”
The fan went on to explain their perspective in greater detail, emphasizing financial pressures faced by everyday listeners.
Transcribed by fan via Facebook:
“I was hoping your new music would be released as a whole, for a fair industry standard retail price of 18.99 (or so)… it’s a bit much for us devoted fans who are struggling to justify our electric bills and other utilities needed to feel ‘normal’ and still have a monetary amount of cash to barely save after we put gas in the car once the bills are paid.”
Although the comment was framed respectfully, VINNIE VINCENT did not take it lightly.
VINNIE VINCENT Issues a Blunt and Unfiltered Response
In response, VINNIE VINCENT delivered a lengthy and unapologetic rebuttal. His reply was aimed not only at the individual fan but also at critics questioning his broader pricing philosophy.
Transcribed by Facebook post:
“First of all, consider the analogy to caviar or fine art. Not everyone can afford it. That simple. Second, I resent your ‘personal life’s needs … prices alleviate my burdens’ insult. Who the f-ck are you to assume such a theory because you can’t afford or don’t want to pay or don’t agree with my price? … Oh but you expect a fair market price of 18.99.”
Following that, VINNIE VINCENT expanded his argument by addressing what he sees as a fundamental shift in how music is valued in the modern era.
Transcribed by Facebook post:
“Fair market price? Lol. That was yesteryear. Welcome to the new agenda. Artists can and will set their own standards and rules for the purchase price of their art, when they’ve had their fill of being ripped off … that’s (if) there are any or many artists of value left, aside from the standard list. If you don’t agree with the price, don’t buy it. It’s that easy.”
Criticism of Fan Entitlement and Industry Expectations
Additionally, VINNIE VINCENT took aim at what he perceives as entitlement among certain fans. According to him, independent artists are now navigating a harsh and unforgiving environment.
Transcribed by Facebook post:
“Independent artists now have to navigate a ‘Mad Max wasteland of survival’ and are the directed victims of massive ripoffs, reduced to beg and pander for likes and subscribes from self-entitled brats who want their work for free or for next to nothing.”
He continued by drawing comparisons to other forms of consumer spending, which he believes reveal a double standard.
Transcribed by Facebook post:
“Yet these are the same whiners who have no problem paying someone $500 for a brick from a house he demolished or $1,000 for a sweaty pair of used socks. But you b-tches cry and whine like f-cking babies when VV sells something at a price you don’t like. Grow the f-ck up!”
“My Music Is Not for You”
Perhaps the most polarizing part of VINNIE VINCENT’s response was his suggestion that certain fans should simply move on.
Transcribed by Facebook post:
“Frankly, I have no interest in whether you buy my works at my price or not. In fact, I recommend that you stay with your KISS records. Because that’s where you belong. My music is not for you.”
Despite the backlash, VINNIE VINCENT remained unwavering. He also called on fellow artists to take control of their creative output and financial worth.
Transcribed by Facebook post:
“If artists had any f-cking balls they would unite, form a coalition and shut down all free goods giveaway and stop the suck-up pandering to social media fans and bring it all back to where it began.”
Standing Firm on the Value of His Art
Ultimately, VINNIE VINCENT made it clear that he stands behind both his music and its price.
Transcribed by Facebook post:
“My price is my compensation for my talent and the music that fans want and wait for. And lastly, it’s worth every f-cking penny. It’s the best designer drug on the market — an endless high of pure fire running through your veins.”
Whether fans agree or disagree, one thing remains certain. VINNIE VINCENT is unwilling to compromise his vision, even if it means narrowing his audience. As the music industry continues to evolve, his stance adds another chapter to the ongoing debate about artistic ownership, value, and fan expectations.
